Depoe Bay is a tiny coastal town with about 1,500 permanent residents. Despite its small size, Depoe Bay has much to offer those willing to add it as a stop on their road trip down the Oregon Coast.
Not only can you find intriguing restaurants, art galleries, breweries, and bakeries, but this is also the perfect place to see the resident pod of whales and enjoy other marine and forest wildlife.
Yet, even though it is a small town, it can be difficult to narrow down what you should do when you visit. Luckily, in this article, we provide nine things you can do in Depoe Bay, plus a little bit about the town and why it is one of the best places to travel to in Oregon.
About Depoe Bay
Driving south, you will pass many beautiful beach locations, such as Moolack Beach, Nye Beach, Fogarty Beach, and more. However, there is one stop that you may want to try staying longer at, and that’s Depoe Bay.
This charming coastal town in Lincoln County is well known for its extraordinarily beautiful rugged coastlines and breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Adding to its charm is the fact that it is home to the world’s smallest navigable harbor, Depoe Bay Harbor.
This town is also known as the ‘whale-watching capital’ of the Oregon coast. You can watch migrating grey whales, sea lions, and other marine wildlife from various spots considered hidden gems along its coastline.
Many find that with its gorgeous natural beauty, inviting, friendly community, diverse wildlife and marine life, and town attractions, Depoe Bay is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re planning a visit to the town for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find a home in the town during your stay.
The 9 Things To Do When Visiting Depoe Bay
With so many things to do in Depoe Bay, deciding which should be included on your travel itinerary can be incredibly challenging.
So, to help you with this conundrum, we’ve shared nine of the best things to do in this cozy beachside town that will fill your time and help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Whale Watching
Well known for being the top whale-watching capital along the Oregon coast, you can choose to whale watch in this town in many ways. For example, you can go to the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center or hunt for one of the whale-watching hidden gems on the coastline by asking a local where to look.
If you’re not in the mood to hunt for a spot to whale watch or don’t want to visit the center, you can go on a guided tour to spot whales and other marine life.
Gray whales can be seen almost year-round in Depoe Bay. While they migrate from December to January and March to June, there is a resident population that can be spotted from June to mid-November as well. So, no matter when you visit, you’ll see whales.
2. Stroll Along The Depoe Bay Coastline
Everyone loves wandering along the coast, reminiscing about life, or looking toward the future, and there is no place like Depoe Bay’s coastline to bask in the feeling of enjoying life.
So why not take a light stroll along the Depoe Bay coastline, which displays some of the best views of the town? High and low tides offer beautiful views that differ slightly, so you won’t miss out. And while you’re at it, why not walk by the world’s smallest harbor, watch the fishing boats come and go, and take in the charming coastal views?
If this sounds like something you’ll want to do, you need to access the Oregon Coast Trail at the center of town, as it also offers a spacious parking area across the street for you to park your vehicle and begin your walk.
3. Beverly Beach State Park Fun
This little gem (near Depoe Bay) is hidden between Cape Foulweather and Yaquina Head. Beverly Beach State Park offers the best of both worlds, with forest campsites and a nearby beach. The park provides opportunities to see tidepools, rich sea life, scenic viewpoints, and a beach that stretches between Yaquina Head and Otter Rock.
The park is also not far from the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and restaurants and local businesses are waiting to be explored in Newport, better known as the Newport historic Bayfront. If camping or picnicking is what you are after on your to-do list, then you couldn’t ask for a more primed spot.
Although it might not be in Depoe Bay, it is uber close by, so it is worth visiting when you explore this coastal town.
4. Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
The Boiler Bay State scenic viewpoint gives tourists a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. This lookout point experiences steady traffic due to the scenery, picnic locations, and public restrooms. It is also considered another good whale-watching site.
For dog lovers, the viewpoint also allows leashed dogs so you and your beloved furry companion can both enjoy this beautiful spot while eating a snack before you venture out to your next location in the town.
5. Water Fun in The World’s Smallest Harbor
You can’t stop in Depoe Bay without taking a water excursion. The Depoe Bay harbor can be found at the end of a channel beneath the Depoe Bay Bridge. The world’s smallest harbor is approximately six acres large and is connected to a channel that is also connected to the ocean.
Despite being the smallest navigable natural harbor, residents have not failed to provide many things to do for visitors.
Companies at the harbor draw in tourists by mainly offering water-guided tours that allow you to experience whale watching and other marine life up close. There are also boat fishing excursions that you’ll love if you’re an avid sea fisherman or just want to try it.
6. Accommodation At The Whale Cove Inn
Since the early 1930s, there has always been an inn in Depoe Bay for weary travelers to rest, and this inn is called the Whale Cove Inn. Many often boast that the inn offers luxury accommodations, romantic ambiance, and breathtaking views.
This is unsurprising, considering the Whale Cove Inn’s prestigious reputation. No matter when you visit, you won’t be disappointed with your room, the inn’s amenities, the view, or the customer service.
Besides being charming and a pleasant place to stay, it also offers delicious breakfast, lunch, and supper menus. Many argue they have some of the best food on the Oregon Coast. Whether that’s true or not is up to you to decide.
7. Explore The Town And Local Shops
Shopping lovers will find that the downtown shops in Depoe Bay have a lot to offer. You will find ice cream shops, restaurants, bakeries, art galleries, gift shop stops, and more in Downtown Depoe Bay- leaving no shortage of things to do and try.
You should consider stopping at the Depoe Baykery, Gracie’s Sea Hag, and the Horn Public House, as they are arguably some of the best places to experience Depoe Bay’s offerings regarding consumerism.
However, to enjoy a night of romance, you should visit Restaurant Beck. This fine dining establishment delivers on its promise of delicious cuisine. Afterward, you can book a passionate night stay at one of this coastal city’s premium hotels, such as the Channel House or the Whale Cove Inn.
8. Otter Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
One of the most interesting viewpoints on the Oregon coast is the Otter Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint. This is considered the smallest marine reserve in Oregon, located near Otter Rock and Depoe Bay. Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint is ideal for a fantastic view of the ocean and an opportunity to learn about and witness marine wildlife in its natural state.
If you decide to visit, gather your outdoor gear, as you’ll do more than simply view the ocean. Once you access the Otter Rock Marine Reserve by going through the Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area, you can walk along the beach, explore tidepools, and maybe spot a seal or two.
9. Yaquina Head Light House
The Yaquina Bay lighthouse in Newport, not far from Depoe Bay, attracts many tourists as it is considered one of the many locations on the Oregon Coast that is a non-negotiable must-see. Depoe Bay harbor seals, whales, and other marine life can be seen passing through the waters surrounding the 100-acre land where the lighthouse rests.
First lit in 1873, the lighthouse is measured to be one of the tallest lighthouses in Oregon. The Yaquina head lighthouse has multiple tours for tourists to experience between July and August each year. Here, you can enrich yourself with the lighthouse’s history while looking over the scenic landscape that overlooks the pristine-looking cobble beach and ocean.
The Wrap-Up
There is no shortage of things to do in Depoe Bay and its immediate surroundings. Even with our list, there is still more to do. There is visiting the Newport Aquarium and Depoe Bay Bridge underwater walkways, kite flying, tide pooling, and exploring restaurants, to name a few.
So, whether you are strolling down Beverly Beach, fishing, exploring Cape Foulweather, eating fresh seafood at a restaurant, or driving the Otter Crest loop. Depoe Bay and its surroundings are the perfect destination for all-around fun and unique experiences as you enjoy your Oregon coast road trip.